The company celebrates its 20th year in business this year and will now provide a nominated fireperson at the site in addition to manned guarding.
The changes, including the installation and monitoring of sophisticated new Digital CCTV surveillance and recording technology, have been made possible as part of the multi-million pound refurbishment programme.
To date, First Security’s role has been largely one of ‘physical’ security. The new CCTV contract was secured by First Security’s Specialists Services Division (SSD) and aims to ease the year-round task of dealing with thousands of visitors, external public, performers and staff.
Colin Restall, Head of Security & Health & Safety at the Southbank Centre explained: “We decided, with the refurbishment, to update our existing CCTV system, and First Security was successful in its tender. Where possible, existing cameras are being re-utilised, but new ones are also being installed, and that is an ongoing process.
“Part of the premises licence as a public venue requires having an on-site fire team, and so certain officers have received additional training in firefighting and fire prevention, the monitoring of fire systems, and the appropriate response in the event of a fire breaking out. They also conduct checks before each event to remove fire and/or potential health and safety hazards.”
The Southbank Centre and The Royal Festival Hall have seen a considerable increase in visitor numbers over the last few years with the opening of the nearby London Eye. First Security feel they have successfully capitalised on the additional challenges this has brought.
“If you consider 10 or maybe even five years ago, asking your security contractor whether he could take on the additional roles and responsibilities as we have done, then it might not have been possible. It is a tremendous compliment to First Security and the senior management team that they have been able to meet the challenge, whilst retaining the same high standards of performance throughout their operation.”
Commenting on the contract, David Mundell, Director of First Security says: “We are clearly delighted to have extended our work on such a prestigious contract. The scope of the manned guarding industry has changed and continues to change rapidly, and the successful will be those who recognise the opportunity, and have the right people and the right skill-sets to support their clients in the long term.”
The entire Southbank site can accommodate up to 6,000 visitors at any one time. The main refurbishment of the Royal Festival Hall began in June 2005, and it is due to re-open next month.
